Nigerian News: Morning Headlines – 13 January 2026

Nigerian News: Morning Headlines – 13 January 2026

NAF Defends Airstrike as Survivors Insist Victims Were Traders

The Nigerian military has defended an airstrike on a market in Jilli village near the Borno–Yobe border, describing the location as a terrorist enclave. Authorities maintained that the strike targeted insurgent elements operating in the area.

However, survivors disputed the claim, stating that those affected were cattle traders and not terrorists. The incident reportedly left over 50 people dead, raising concerns about civilian casualties and operational accuracy.


Supreme Court to Hear Appeals on ADC, PDP Leadership Crises

The Supreme Court of Nigeria is set to hear separate appeals on Tuesday concerning leadership disputes within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The appeals involve embattled ADC National Chairman David Mark and a faction of the PDP backed by Seyi Makinde, led by Tanimu Turaki, all challenging earlier rulings of the Court of Appeal.


Police Dismiss Amnesty Report on Kidnappings as Unverified

The Nigeria Police Force has rejected a report by Amnesty International claiming that at least 1,100 persons were kidnapped across Nigeria within three months.

Police authorities described the figures as unverified and not cross-checked with security agencies, questioning the credibility of the report and urging caution in interpreting such statistics.


NDLEA Arrests Ivorian, Nigerian Doctor Over Cocaine Trafficking

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have arrested an Ivorian national and a Nigerian medical doctor over alleged cocaine trafficking.

The agency said the Ivorian suspect, Gohouri Michael, was apprehended at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport while attempting to board an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Milan via Addis Ababa during passenger clearance.


Hayatu-Deen Dumps PDP for ADC Over National Concerns

Former presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party and joined the African Democratic Congress.

He cited worsening insecurity, rising cost of living, and what he described as a shrinking democratic space in Nigeria as key reasons for his defection.


Enugu APC Denies Crisis, Labels Reports False

The Enugu State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has denied reports of internal crisis and mass resignations within its ranks.

In a statement by Publicity Secretary Uche Obute, the party described the allegations as a “false narrative” and insisted there were no issues concerning delegates’ welfare.


Fuel Price Relief Fades as US-Iran Talks Collapse

Hopes of a drop in fuel prices in Nigeria have dimmed following the collapse of high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran.

The breakdown in talks has heightened tensions in the Middle East, triggering volatility in global oil markets and raising concerns over potential increases in fuel costs.


Trump Orders Naval Blockade of Strait of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump has directed the United States Navy to begin a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after failed nuclear talks with Iran.

In a statement, Trump said negotiations made progress but failed on “the only point that really mattered” — Iran’s nuclear ambitions, escalating geopolitical tensions.


Imo Police Bust Robbery Syndicate, Recover 450 Motorcycles

The Imo State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a robbery syndicate, leading to the arrest of five suspects.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said 450 allegedly stolen motorcycles were recovered during the operation, describing it as a major breakthrough.


NDLEA Kano Command Arrests 21, Clears Drug Joints

The Kano Strategic Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has dislodged several drug joints across the state.

According to spokesperson Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, the operation led to the arrest of 21 suspects and the seizure of illicit substances and weapons.


INEC Denies Copying Statement from Tinubu’s Aide

The Independent National Electoral Commission has dismissed claims that it copied a press statement from Dada Olusegun.

INEC described the reports as false and misleading, explaining that any similar version seen elsewhere was circulated without its involvement.


NAF Airstrike Kills Over 50 at Border Market

More than 50 people, mostly traders, were reportedly killed in an airstrike at Jilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border.

Local sources said the strike, believed to target insurgents, missed its intended objective and hit civilians during peak trading hours, causing widespread casualties.


Galadima Warns Tinubu Lacks Grassroots Support

Zainab Buba Galadima has raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s public support.

She said while the president may enjoy backing from governors, there is a disconnect with ordinary Nigerians, warning that advisers may be misrepresenting public sentiment.


US Commends Nigeria Over Terrorism Convictions

The United States has praised Nigeria for securing the conviction of 386 terrorism suspects.

U.S. official Massad Boulos commended the legal process, while Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi confirmed the convictions followed a mass trial in Abuja.


Fayose Alleges Plot to Remove Olubadan

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has alleged that Governor Seyi Makinde plans to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rahidi Adewolu Ladoja.

Fayose claimed the move would begin with official queries over the monarch’s absence at a recent event, though no official confirmation has been made.


FG Denies Oyedele Admitted Errors in Tax Laws

The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has denied reports that Taiwo Oyedele admitted errors in new tax laws.

The committee said the reports misrepresented his comments, noting that the legislative process had been concluded and laws already gazetted.


Actor Patrick Doyle Loses Newborn Daughter

Veteran actor Patrick Doyle has announced the death of his newborn daughter, Omayinuwa Harriet.

The child, born on Friday, passed away the following day, with Doyle stating the brief moment brought joy despite the tragic loss.


Yvonne Jegede Says Marriage Is Overrated

Nollywood actress Yvonne Jegede has described marriage as overrated, based on her personal experiences.

She said many women face unequal burdens in marriage but acknowledged that some people still find happiness in it, respecting differing perspectives.


Man City Beat Chelsea to Boost Title Hopes

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 3-0 to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal.

Goals from Nico O’Reilly, Marc Guehi, and Jeremy Doku secured the win, strengthening City’s position ahead of a crucial clash with Arsenal.


Arsenal Consider Replacing Arteta with Fabregas

Arsenal are reportedly considering replacing manager Mikel Arteta with Cesc Fabregas.

Reports suggest mounting pressure on Arteta after a disappointing run, with Fabregas emerging as a leading candidate to take over.

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